Happy New Year

It's been two weeks since I posted anything here on my blog, so I wanted to pop in, say hello, and wish you a happy new year!

How is 2014 going for you so far?

Here's what's been happening around here lately.  

Lately, I've been giving a lot of thought to what I want to accomplish this year. To which goals are most important, and how much time and energy and money I want to devote to each.  

Lately, I've been sorting through boxes and boxes of my teaching supplies, and deciding what to keep, what to give away, and what to throw out. I've also been reminiscing as I look at drawings and notes from former students and glance at photos from field trips and special classroom activities.  Sometimes, I miss teaching (especially the days with my fourth graders), but most often, I feel very lucky and happy to be at home with Noah.     

Lately, I've been polishing an article about animal communication and researching presidential pets for a second piece.

Lately, I've been processing photos from Noah's birthday party earlier this month.  (I hope to have a post up later this week.)

Lately, I've been flossing my teeth while Noah plays in the bathtub. I've never been good at remembering to floss, but this year I want to try to make a habit of it.

Lately, I've been slowly working on my December Daily album, adding patterned paper and a few embellishments. 

Lately, I've been watching Downton Abbey with Brian. It's one of the few television shows we watch together, and although I know Brian doesn't love it like I do, I love that he watches it with me anyway. 

Lately, I've been writing thank you notes for Noah's birthday gifts.

Lately, I've been walking on the treadmill three times a week during Noah's nap time. But I keep telling myself I need to step it up big time (as in, "Run, Jennie, run!") if I'm going to attempt a 12K in April.  

Lately, I've been singing Kumbaya, My Lord and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and Row, Row, Row Your Boat.  Noah enthusiastically sings along, uttering every fourth or fifth word, which makes my heart happy.  

What have you been up to lately?

Lately...

1) I've been experimenting with actions in Photoshop Elements. I downloaded two FREE sets of actions on Pioneer Woman's website and I've been having fun *playing* ever since. (I ran a few actions on the picture above and I'm pretty pleased with the way it turned out!)

2) I've been working on my Project Life scrapbook. I hope to be able to share pictures (and maybe video?!) with you soon.

3) I took the dogs to the vet for their shots. I was a bit nervous about taking both of them at the same time, but they did surprisingly well. They don't remember how to walk on leashes (since we rarely go on "walks" anymore), but they were very calm and obedient in the vet's office. Luckily, both dogs are healthy; they have just a bit of tartar on their teeth.

4) I've started going to physical therapy for my left knee. I'm hoping that the PT sessions over the next few weeks will help eliminate the pain and discomfort, so I can get back out running again.

5) I've been listening to a lot of Chris Young's music. I was a fan of his before seeing him at the CMA Music Fest and the Grand Ole Opry, but now I'm a superfan. His new album is coming out July 12th. Guess who has already pre-ordered it?!

6) I've been reading (and enjoying) The Help by Kathryn Stockett on my iPhone. A movie, based on the book, is due out in mid-August.

Hope you are enjoying this 4th of July weekend.

I'll be back soon to share pictures of my Project Life scrapbook.

Hugs,
J